PhD position in "Agroecology for field-crop production"

1260 Nyon | 100-100%

****This is how you can contribute****

• Conduct field samplings, laboratory analyses, and data treatment in a 6-year old field trial
• Assess the diversity and functional composition of weeds based on a dataset from a 6-year long rotation
• Analyse the composition and functioning of soil microbiome in response to soil tillage and herbicide reduction
• Characterize the quantity and quality of soil organic carbon after 6-years of reduced soil tillage and herbicide application
• Disseminate results through scientific publications, technical reports, and conference participation

****This makes you unique****

• Master's degree in environmental sciences, agricultural science, biology or a related disciplines
• Strong interest in agroecology, sustainable agriculture, soil science, plant ecology
• Data analysis and laboratory experience is an advantage
• Ability to work independently while collaborating in a multidisciplinary and international research team
• Good organisational and communication skills
• Knowledge of two official Swiss languages and English

****In a nutshell****

The research project (SUSTAGRI) is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation and will run for four years. The project is a scientific collaboration between various scientific institutions, including: Agroscope, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), University of Lausanne, University of Zurich, Nestlé Institute of Agricultural Sciences, University of Basilicata (Italy), and National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE - France). The PhD student will be based at Agroscope in Nyon (Switzerland) and will be enrolled in the EDCE (Civil and Environmental Engineering) doctoral program at EPFL. The EDCE doctoral program requires that the PhD candidate must be admitted into the doctoral school by fulfilling the criteria of the specific program.

****Our benefits****

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the successful Swiss model and work for the public good.
• Embracing diversity Thanks to equal opportunities, we draw on our expertise and contribute different perspectives.
• Staying healthy at work We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.

All benefits

****Good food, healthy environment****

Agroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Its researchers work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld (as of 2026: Posieux), Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.

****Additional information****

Based on the principles of agroecology, the 'Field-Crop Systems and Plant Nutrition' Research Group aims to develop the scientific foundations to increase the efficiency of use of field-crop nutrients, encourage the use of recyclable products such as fertiliser and develop resilient systems for soil conservation practices, crop-rotation diversification and agroforestry systems.

****Questions about the position****

Luca Bragazza Group leader
+41 58 48 18586